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Wisconsin governor proposes same-sex partnerships

February 19, 2009 by savvyplanners.com 

By RYAN J. FOLEY;  Chippewa.com
Thursday, February 19, 2009 4:46 PM CST

MADISON, Wis. – Same-sex couples could form domestic partnerships and receive dozens of the same legal benefits as married people under a proposal by Wisconsin Gov. Jim Doyle.

Supporters say it’s a step forward for gay and lesbian couples who would get the right to visit one another in hospitals, make each other’s end-of-life decisions and inherit their partner’s homes and cars.

But critics question whether the plan conflicts with a state constitutional amendment banning gay marriage. One conservative group promised a lawsuit if it is approved.

Wisconsin would become the ninth state to offer same-sex couples protections through domestic partnerships or civil unions, according to gay rights groups. Two states allow gay marriage, while Wisconsin and 28 others have constitutional amendments banning it.

Researchers estimated 1,400 to 5,000 same-sex couples would register their relationships at county clerks offices in the first year. That’s based on other states’ experiences and U.S. Census Bureau data showing about 14,000 same-sex couples in Wisconsin.

Along with the inheritance and hospital protections, partners would qualify for medical leave from work to care for each other and not have to testify against each other in court.

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